Protect your outdoor TV from bad weather: Here are 3 tips

Many people enjoy watching TV outside when the weather is nice, whether it is on their patio, deck or backyard. However, as the temperatures dip, it's important to know that not all TVs are suitable for outdoor use, especially during winter.

Renowned cybersecurity expert, Kurt 'CyberGuy' Knutsson, answers a question from Chad in Brentwood, Tennessee, who is wondering about keeping his indoor TV outside during the winter. In his response, Kurt reveals the risks and provides three crucial tips on how to keep your TV safe from the cold weather.

Chad shares that he has been using an 'outside TV' (an indoor TV placed outside) for many years, but it has become cumbersome for him to take it down and move it inside every winter. He considers leaving it outside this year, as it is covered by a second story and protected from water and snow. However, Chad expresses concerns about keeping the TV warm on extremely cold days.

Kurt's immediate response to Chad's query is a resounding 'No.' He explains that indoor TVs are not designed to withstand harsh outdoor conditions, especially the cold weather during winter. The cold temperatures can lead to various problems that may render the TV useless.

Firstly, the screen of the TV, made of liquid crystals, can freeze and expand in low temperatures, resulting in cracks or shattering. Moreover, the internal components, such as the circuit board, power supply, and speakers, can be affected by the cold, causing them to contract or become brittle. Additionally, the cold can reduce battery life and overall performance.

Kurt warns Chad that leaving his indoor TV outside during winter may void the warranty, as most warranties do not cover damage caused by improper use or environmental factors such as extreme temperatures.

However, Kurt doesn't leave Chad empty-handed. He offers valuable tips on how to minimize risks and extend the lifespan of a current TV if Chad decides to keep it outside. The first tip is to use a weatherproof enclosure that fits snugly around the TV and has openings for cables and ventilation. This will protect the TV from moisture and dust.

Secondly, Kurt advises Chad to keep the TV dry and prevent moisture from entering. Using a dehumidifier or silica gel packets can help reduce humidity and absorb moisture inside the enclosure. Furthermore, sealing any gaps or cracks with waterproof tape or sealant can prevent condensation or short circuits.

Lastly, Kurt suggests insulating the TV with materials such as foam, bubble wrap, or blankets, ensuring that the ventilation and airflow are unobstructed.

Kurt emphasizes the importance of maintaining the optimal temperature range for a TV, which is between 40°F and 100°F, with a relative humidity of 80% or lower. He notes that Samsung advises against exposing TVs to temperatures below -20°C (-4°F) or above 45°C (113°F).

In conclusion, Kurt highlights the benefits of investing in an outdoor TV specifically designed to withstand outdoor conditions. These TVs come with weatherproof enclosures that protect internal components, ventilation systems to regulate temperature and prevent condensation, and enhanced picture and sound quality suitable for outdoor environments.

To wrap up, Kurt addresses the concern of TV theft or vandalism and suggests using a weatherproof TV cover or enclosure to make it harder to remove. Installing a security camera or alarm near the TV can also deter or detect intruders. Choosing a visible and secure location, such as under an awning or on a wall mount, can help prevent easy access or damage.

In the end, Kurt reiterates his advice against leaving indoor TVs outside during winter and encourages readers to consider investing in outdoor TVs for a better viewing experience and longer lifespan.

If you have any thoughts on the benefits and challenges of having an outdoor TV in your area, Kurt invites you to share your views at Cyberguy.com/Contact.

For more of Kurt's tech tips and security alerts, you can subscribe to his free CyberGuy Report Newsletter at Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.